What do you think?
Rate this book
Dark and Devilish #1
A Debt of Darkness
The man I’m forced to marry is everything I despise.
Henry’s reputation makes men tremble in fear and women quake with something else. He demands complete obedience and his deals are as sordid as his past. He gets exactly what he wants, and what he wants is me.
My father sold me to him, but I’m not an obedient type of girl.
Henry won’t get what he wants this time. Not from me. Not even when he looks at me with longing and his touch makes me burn. Not when I’m going to make him pay for everything he’s stolen from me.
He's about to discover that even he can’t buy my heart–unless the price he's willing to pay is far higher than I ever thought a man like Henry would.
_ _ _ _ _ _
This is a dark and spicy paranormal romance featuring an anti-hero, a strong heroine, and contains scenes and references of abuse/assault that some readers may find triggering, along with graphic sex scenes and violence. This is a dark book, suitable for 18+ readers only.
Henry’s reputation makes men tremble in fear and women quake with something else. He demands complete obedience and his deals are as sordid as his past. He gets exactly what he wants, and what he wants is me.
My father sold me to him, but I’m not an obedient type of girl.
Henry won’t get what he wants this time. Not from me. Not even when he looks at me with longing and his touch makes me burn. Not when I’m going to make him pay for everything he’s stolen from me.
He's about to discover that even he can’t buy my heart–unless the price he's willing to pay is far higher than I ever thought a man like Henry would.
_ _ _ _ _ _
This is a dark and spicy paranormal romance featuring an anti-hero, a strong heroine, and contains scenes and references of abuse/assault that some readers may find triggering, along with graphic sex scenes and violence. This is a dark book, suitable for 18+ readers only.
485 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2024
278 people are currently reading
1128 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Holmes
14 books124 followersCJ Holmes lives in England, where it's cold and damp, and it's always raining - which provides her with enough time to write stories about magic, fantasy and romance. She'd like to escape to somewhere warm but that might mean that she spends too much time sunbathing and not enough time writing books.
She lives in a quaint English cottage which would have one of those idyllic gardens if her fingers weren't the opposite of green. Fortunately, her husband and children don't seem to mind that almost everything she tries to grow ends up dead. She enjoys drinking wine and gin, which conveniently coincides with her love of reading and writing, as well as running and watching bad TV shows. You have been warned....
Instagram ➜ @cjholmes_writing
Find me on threads ➜ @cjholmes_writing
She lives in a quaint English cottage which would have one of those idyllic gardens if her fingers weren't the opposite of green. Fortunately, her husband and children don't seem to mind that almost everything she tries to grow ends up dead. She enjoys drinking wine and gin, which conveniently coincides with her love of reading and writing, as well as running and watching bad TV shows. You have been warned....
Instagram ➜ @cjholmes_writing
Find me on threads ➜ @cjholmes_writing
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
November 16, 2024
**ARC REVIEW**
Unless the plot of this book was a smutty journal of how Stockholm Syndrome is developed, it was nonexistent up until the 70% mark and even then, there was no explanation on why any of this was happening.
Unless the plot of this book was a smutty journal of how Stockholm Syndrome is developed, it was nonexistent up until the 70% mark and even then, there was no explanation on why any of this was happening.
November 10, 2024
4.5 🌟 rounded to 5.
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
**I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review**
I was captivated by this book from page 1. It was paced well and held my interest. I loved seeing (reading?) Henry and Ivy's relationship evolve. It was SPICY, but the spicy scenes were placed well throughout the book. Everything flowed well, and the twists were placed perfectly. I could have devoted this in a day if I didn't have to go to a job! I loved it and the cover is gorgeous too!
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
**I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review**
I was captivated by this book from page 1. It was paced well and held my interest. I loved seeing (reading?) Henry and Ivy's relationship evolve. It was SPICY, but the spicy scenes were placed well throughout the book. Everything flowed well, and the twists were placed perfectly. I could have devoted this in a day if I didn't have to go to a job! I loved it and the cover is gorgeous too!
May 29, 2025
4.5 stars 4 peppers
- vampires
- arranged marriage
- forced proximity
- morally black MMC
- dark
I absolutely loved this book, flew through it, like I blinked and I was already 50% into it. It is a fast paced vampire romance. The world building was so good. The relationship progression between Ivy and Henry was perfect. The suspense and mystery keeps you hooked the entire time. And the spice- the spice was HOT. There is so much more that you get to see glimpses of (like the coven, and Ryan- I loved him) and I hoping we get to see more as the series continues.
For sure check the trigger warnings because it is dark.
- vampires
- arranged marriage
- forced proximity
- morally black MMC
- dark
I absolutely loved this book, flew through it, like I blinked and I was already 50% into it. It is a fast paced vampire romance. The world building was so good. The relationship progression between Ivy and Henry was perfect. The suspense and mystery keeps you hooked the entire time. And the spice- the spice was HOT. There is so much more that you get to see glimpses of (like the coven, and Ryan- I loved him) and I hoping we get to see more as the series continues.
For sure check the trigger warnings because it is dark.
November 14, 2024
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy of this book! I truly enjoyed this read!
I’m going to preface the review by saying that this book is absolutely written for a specific audience, so read the tropes, reviews, and trigger warnings before starting it because everyone has their own preferences.
This book gets 4.5 stars because I think the author did a fantastic job accomplishing her vision for the book, and it’s evident what the goal was as you read it. It’s got vampires set in the modern day world, with an arranged marriage, forced proximity, and a morally black MMC. This book is super fast-paced and will keep you captivated until the end. Additionally, this book is absolutely a dark romance with elements of fantasy, but the focus is absolutely on the relationship building between FMC and MMC. Personally, I would have liked to see more information on how the covens operate and the political nuances involved.
Fans who enjoyed The Coven by Harper L Woods and Savage Ax by DN Hoxa would like this book.
I’m going to preface the review by saying that this book is absolutely written for a specific audience, so read the tropes, reviews, and trigger warnings before starting it because everyone has their own preferences.
This book gets 4.5 stars because I think the author did a fantastic job accomplishing her vision for the book, and it’s evident what the goal was as you read it. It’s got vampires set in the modern day world, with an arranged marriage, forced proximity, and a morally black MMC. This book is super fast-paced and will keep you captivated until the end. Additionally, this book is absolutely a dark romance with elements of fantasy, but the focus is absolutely on the relationship building between FMC and MMC. Personally, I would have liked to see more information on how the covens operate and the political nuances involved.
Fans who enjoyed The Coven by Harper L Woods and Savage Ax by DN Hoxa would like this book.
November 30, 2024
ARC review!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This was honestly one of my favorite reads of the year!! I was captivated from beginning to end.
A few well written, fast paced enemies to lovers story involving Vampires, some BDSM content and lots of morally dark action!
(Trigger warnings are available if you don't want to go in blind)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This was honestly one of my favorite reads of the year!! I was captivated from beginning to end.
A few well written, fast paced enemies to lovers story involving Vampires, some BDSM content and lots of morally dark action!
(Trigger warnings are available if you don't want to go in blind)
December 17, 2024
"Every secret carries a debt, the price of silence can be deadly"
Tropes
🥀 Vampire/ Human
🥀 Arranged Marriage
🥀 Enemies to Lovers
🥀 He falls first
🥀 Dual POV
I overall loved rhe book. It was regarding vampire and Human romance. This was a dark PNR with full of angst.
Ivy, first, brave and stubborn as hell with a dash of vulnerabilities. If we talk about Henry, he is stern, rigid but he has sense of responsibility towards Ivy's safety.
The story was amazing and captivating. The plot, twists and the pace of the book will keep you engaging.
"It's because I want to be kind.
To her
For her
She deserves it and needs it"
Henry was an amazing man but a violent mess. This is Enemies to lovers and this trope is incomplete without banter, so yes, there was hell lot of banter and God these two bicker alot.
But still Henry
" She's my salvation and my savior.
My hope and my light.
All of my reasons and then some"
So this book all and all is a great read. If you love vampire and want to go for a perfect spicy book with appropriate amount of bickering and tension, then here it is 🥀🥀
Tropes
🥀 Vampire/ Human
🥀 Arranged Marriage
🥀 Enemies to Lovers
🥀 He falls first
🥀 Dual POV
I overall loved rhe book. It was regarding vampire and Human romance. This was a dark PNR with full of angst.
Ivy, first, brave and stubborn as hell with a dash of vulnerabilities. If we talk about Henry, he is stern, rigid but he has sense of responsibility towards Ivy's safety.
The story was amazing and captivating. The plot, twists and the pace of the book will keep you engaging.
"It's because I want to be kind.
To her
For her
She deserves it and needs it"
Henry was an amazing man but a violent mess. This is Enemies to lovers and this trope is incomplete without banter, so yes, there was hell lot of banter and God these two bicker alot.
But still Henry
" She's my salvation and my savior.
My hope and my light.
All of my reasons and then some"
So this book all and all is a great read. If you love vampire and want to go for a perfect spicy book with appropriate amount of bickering and tension, then here it is 🥀🥀
November 27, 2024
Oooof you guys this was SPICY. Major master/pet vibes. Major touch her and D13 vibes. This is modern day vampires with an interesting take on feeding that I enjoyed. I do wish we got to learn more about the Coven politics and the Brotherhood. As well as more detail into Henry and Ryan’s sire backstory. Hopefully in the next book! I will for sure be continuing the series. Overall recommend!
November 1, 2024
A debt of Darkness
-CJ Holmes
Rating: 4.25/5 ★
"A Debt of Darkness" by CJ Holmes is a captivating read that weaves together elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. The story follows a compelling protagonist who finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and old debts that reach into the shadows of her past.
Holmes excels at building an atmospheric setting that immerses you in the eerie and unpredictable world the characters inhabit. The pacing is steady, with tension gradually escalating as the protagonist uncovers hidden truths and faces her fears. The writing is vivid and descriptive, making it easy to visualize the chilling environments and complex emotions at play.
What I particularly enjoyed was the depth of the characters. Each has their own motivations and struggles, which adds layers to the story and keeps you invested in their journeys. The themes of redemption, the weight of choices, and the lingering effects of the past resonate throughout the narrative, making it more than just a typical thriller.
Overall, "A Debt of Darkness" is a compelling blend of intrigue and emotional depth that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It’s a must-read for fans of dark mysteries and those who appreciate a story with both heart and suspense.
Favorite Quote:
"Every secret carries a debt, and the price of silence can be deadly."
-CJ Holmes
Rating: 4.25/5 ★
"A Debt of Darkness" by CJ Holmes is a captivating read that weaves together elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. The story follows a compelling protagonist who finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and old debts that reach into the shadows of her past.
Holmes excels at building an atmospheric setting that immerses you in the eerie and unpredictable world the characters inhabit. The pacing is steady, with tension gradually escalating as the protagonist uncovers hidden truths and faces her fears. The writing is vivid and descriptive, making it easy to visualize the chilling environments and complex emotions at play.
What I particularly enjoyed was the depth of the characters. Each has their own motivations and struggles, which adds layers to the story and keeps you invested in their journeys. The themes of redemption, the weight of choices, and the lingering effects of the past resonate throughout the narrative, making it more than just a typical thriller.
Overall, "A Debt of Darkness" is a compelling blend of intrigue and emotional depth that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It’s a must-read for fans of dark mysteries and those who appreciate a story with both heart and suspense.
Favorite Quote:
"Every secret carries a debt, and the price of silence can be deadly."
June 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“You’re my mate. My wife. My reason.”
A Debt of Darkness is a dark, obsessive, and deliciously twisted tale of forced proximity, fated mates, and the fine line between devotion and domination. From the moment Ivy is forced into a marriage with the enigmatic Henry Thorne, her life is upended—and what begins as a cage soon becomes something far more complicated.
Henry isn’t human. He’s something ancient, dangerous, and utterly enthralled by Ivy, who’s been promised to him as a debt payment. Their dynamic is a brutal dance of power, submission, and consent layered with supernatural bonds and emotional chaos. As Ivy tries to reclaim her agency, Henry’s love for her only intensifies—violent, desperate, and utterly consuming.
“She’s staring at me like I’m nothing when she’s everything to me.”
“My perfect, precious mate might have given me control, but I know damn well she’s the one with all the power now.”
The spice level? Off the charts. This is one of those books where the tension simmers even when the clothes stay on—and when they don’t? It’s feral, primal, and intense. There’s everything from bath scenes to primal chases to voyeurism, but it’s all grounded in Henry’s obsessive need to worship Ivy like she hung the moon.
“You’re perfect, Ivy—and you’re mine. Mine to use. Mine to give to. Mine to pleasure and provide for. Mine to adore and worship and fuck whenever I damn well want.”
The found family elements with Ryan and Matt add depth to the dark world Holmes has built, and the latter half of the book brings a dose of prophecy, politics, and brutal sacrifice. Ivy’s transformation is both literal and emotional, and by the end, she stands not just as Henry’s mate—but as his equal. His queen.
“We’ve broken and shattered as we found each other, and now we’re remade in each other’s image. Henry’s mine and I am his, and nothing will destroy us.”
If you love possessive antiheroes, forced bonds, and heroines who earn their power through fire, this book will absolutely sink its fangs into you.
“You’re my mate. My wife. My reason.”
A Debt of Darkness is a dark, obsessive, and deliciously twisted tale of forced proximity, fated mates, and the fine line between devotion and domination. From the moment Ivy is forced into a marriage with the enigmatic Henry Thorne, her life is upended—and what begins as a cage soon becomes something far more complicated.
Henry isn’t human. He’s something ancient, dangerous, and utterly enthralled by Ivy, who’s been promised to him as a debt payment. Their dynamic is a brutal dance of power, submission, and consent layered with supernatural bonds and emotional chaos. As Ivy tries to reclaim her agency, Henry’s love for her only intensifies—violent, desperate, and utterly consuming.
“She’s staring at me like I’m nothing when she’s everything to me.”
“My perfect, precious mate might have given me control, but I know damn well she’s the one with all the power now.”
The spice level? Off the charts. This is one of those books where the tension simmers even when the clothes stay on—and when they don’t? It’s feral, primal, and intense. There’s everything from bath scenes to primal chases to voyeurism, but it’s all grounded in Henry’s obsessive need to worship Ivy like she hung the moon.
“You’re perfect, Ivy—and you’re mine. Mine to use. Mine to give to. Mine to pleasure and provide for. Mine to adore and worship and fuck whenever I damn well want.”
The found family elements with Ryan and Matt add depth to the dark world Holmes has built, and the latter half of the book brings a dose of prophecy, politics, and brutal sacrifice. Ivy’s transformation is both literal and emotional, and by the end, she stands not just as Henry’s mate—but as his equal. His queen.
“We’ve broken and shattered as we found each other, and now we’re remade in each other’s image. Henry’s mine and I am his, and nothing will destroy us.”
If you love possessive antiheroes, forced bonds, and heroines who earn their power through fire, this book will absolutely sink its fangs into you.
December 2, 2024
A debt of Darkness by CJ Holmes
Release Date: November 30, 2024
🌟Arc review🌟
"Every secret carries a debt, and the price of silence can be deadly."
Review:
OMG‼️ This book is a captivating to read. There’s so many elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. I was captivated by this book from page 1. It was paced well and held my interest.There are some trigger warnings that do need to be read, and understood prior to reading, CJ did not come to tip toe around things and truly poured herself into this book. It is deep, it does make your stomach upset one moment and heart flutter the next. Holmes excels at building an atmospheric setting that immerses you in the eerie and unpredictable world the characters inhabit. is a compelling blend of intrigue and emotional depth that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It’s definitely a MUST READ‼️
Release Date: November 30, 2024
🌟Arc review🌟
"Every secret carries a debt, and the price of silence can be deadly."
Review:
OMG‼️ This book is a captivating to read. There’s so many elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. I was captivated by this book from page 1. It was paced well and held my interest.There are some trigger warnings that do need to be read, and understood prior to reading, CJ did not come to tip toe around things and truly poured herself into this book. It is deep, it does make your stomach upset one moment and heart flutter the next. Holmes excels at building an atmospheric setting that immerses you in the eerie and unpredictable world the characters inhabit. is a compelling blend of intrigue and emotional depth that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It’s definitely a MUST READ‼️
February 21, 2025
Title: A Debt of Darkness (Dark and Devilish, #1)
Author: CJ Holmes
I picked this up on a whim after seeing it on TikTok, and I have zero regrets! The spice level was top-tier, but what really hooked me was the incredible plot—especially that last twist, which I did not see coming.
Henry and Ivy were a fantastic duo, striking the perfect balance between challenging and complementing each other. But Matt and Ryan? They completely stole my heart. The moment Ryan appeared, I *knew* he’d be my favorite.
I also loved the subtle layers of history and brotherhood woven into the story, along with the overarching theme of embracing destiny. I’d *love* to see more of these characters—maybe even Ryan and Matt’s story someday?
Bookcat rating:🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛½
Spice level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Author: CJ Holmes
I picked this up on a whim after seeing it on TikTok, and I have zero regrets! The spice level was top-tier, but what really hooked me was the incredible plot—especially that last twist, which I did not see coming.
Henry and Ivy were a fantastic duo, striking the perfect balance between challenging and complementing each other. But Matt and Ryan? They completely stole my heart. The moment Ryan appeared, I *knew* he’d be my favorite.
I also loved the subtle layers of history and brotherhood woven into the story, along with the overarching theme of embracing destiny. I’d *love* to see more of these characters—maybe even Ryan and Matt’s story someday?
Bookcat rating:🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛½
Spice level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
January 25, 2025
This book was really good!! I honestly went into the book blind and I was not disappointed. a borderline morally black MMC and a head strong FMC is exactly what I needed in my life I just didn't know it yet!
Read
March 13, 2025the trigger warning at the end KILLED ME😭😭
February 8, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Tropes
🖤Arranged Marriage
❤️Touch her and 💀
🖤DUB CON
❤️Dark Paranormal Romance
🖤BDSM
❤️Master/Pet
🖤Captor & Captive
A Debt of Darkness was the first book that I have read by @cjholmes_writing. I am a fan of hers after this book. I was immediately captivated by this book. It has been a while since I read a vampire novel, and by long time, I mean since Twilight first came out. I don’t know why I waited so long, but I’m happy that this book was the one that got me interested in vampire themes again. To be honest, I am excited to read the entire series. I am already halfway through book two and loving it.
Ivy is “a force to be reckoned with.” This quote says a lot about the person she is. Ivy is a young woman with strength and determination. Despite having a difficult life, she will stop at nothing to protect the people she loves. Ivy won’t be broken down by anyone and fights hard for what she wants. At times you want her to just give up, and at the same time, you want her to keep fighting. Ivy is a human, and her father sold her to Henry—not just any man, but a vampire and her mate.
The coven’s leader, Henry, found his mate after centuries and purchased Ivy from her father. Henry will do anything to make Ivy love him, even if that means punishing her. He would sacrifice everything for Ivy. I didn’t like him at first, but as the book went on, I warmed up to him and fell in love with his character.
All in all, I thought this book was fantastic! If you get a chance, check it out. As always, check your TW before reading this book.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Tropes
🖤Arranged Marriage
❤️Touch her and 💀
🖤DUB CON
❤️Dark Paranormal Romance
🖤BDSM
❤️Master/Pet
🖤Captor & Captive
A Debt of Darkness was the first book that I have read by @cjholmes_writing. I am a fan of hers after this book. I was immediately captivated by this book. It has been a while since I read a vampire novel, and by long time, I mean since Twilight first came out. I don’t know why I waited so long, but I’m happy that this book was the one that got me interested in vampire themes again. To be honest, I am excited to read the entire series. I am already halfway through book two and loving it.
Ivy is “a force to be reckoned with.” This quote says a lot about the person she is. Ivy is a young woman with strength and determination. Despite having a difficult life, she will stop at nothing to protect the people she loves. Ivy won’t be broken down by anyone and fights hard for what she wants. At times you want her to just give up, and at the same time, you want her to keep fighting. Ivy is a human, and her father sold her to Henry—not just any man, but a vampire and her mate.
The coven’s leader, Henry, found his mate after centuries and purchased Ivy from her father. Henry will do anything to make Ivy love him, even if that means punishing her. He would sacrifice everything for Ivy. I didn’t like him at first, but as the book went on, I warmed up to him and fell in love with his character.
All in all, I thought this book was fantastic! If you get a chance, check it out. As always, check your TW before reading this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2024
this book is amazing! my first CJ Holmes book and i already can’t wait for the 2nd. this book follows henry, a vampire, and ivy who is human. her father ‘sells’ her to henry for an arranged marriage. after she finds out she is married to a vampire things get dicey. he has people that are trying to overthrow him. it seems everyone is after him now and he has to protect ivy at all costs. a prophecy comes into to play and who knew ivy would be the key to it all! when this is all said and done ivy finally finds her place in life and a family and henry finally has his forever. please read this book! you will not be disappointed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2024
This was an ARC that I was lucky enough to read! The would have finished much sooner, but life gets in the way sometimes! This was fast paced and never boring! I really enjoyed the characters (Ryan and Matt and Damon!) and their development, though I feel like I wanted more ( Im a sucker for details) about how Henry knew about Ivy and maybe the history of that and Ivy’s history as well (and who really is Damon??) and I feel like a lot more could’ve been developed once Ivy found out a few things in regards to family. The story definitely was based in the now, the present, the day to day- so maybe that’s why those details weren’t included. A few things seemed repetitive, but I think that was too drill home a certainty of emotions and feelings. there was a ton of spice 🔥🔥🔥but with a book like this and the story had centered around I think it’s necessary. would recommend!!!
November 30, 2024
Arc Review!
If I wasn’t a sahm of 3 I would have had this book read in one day. The plot had me shook to the core that I had to walk away for a few minutes and the spice was just wow. If I lost my memory today this book would on the top of list to re-read again.
If I wasn’t a sahm of 3 I would have had this book read in one day. The plot had me shook to the core that I had to walk away for a few minutes and the spice was just wow. If I lost my memory today this book would on the top of list to re-read again.
October 14, 2024
5 ⭐️
4🌶️
“I know evil and it is me.”
I went into A Debt of Darkness excited for another vampire romance, but I wasn’t prepared for the 3am reality check when I realized I hadn’t put the book down! This book had me hooked from the start. I was rooting for Ivy to give in, to just let herself break! And Henry? Yeah, I will kneel beneath him so he can feed on me anytime. Add in that jewel-encrusted collar and a couple of good spankings for good measure.
That said, I did want more development with some of the other characters. There were hints that Ryan and Matt might have a "mate" connection with Ivy, and I was hoping for that to get explored. When Ryan reaction was called out for being stronger than Henry's, I was sure something was going to be established outside of the group romp scene, but it didn’t really take off.
I’ve already asked for a sequel because I need more! This one is a must read for the spice enthusiasts!
Tropes:
⭐️Vampires
⭐️Almost Morally Black MMC
⭐️BDSM
⭐️Prophecies
⭐️Betrayal and Redemption
⭐️Tragic Backstory
Thank you to C.J. Holmes for allowing me to be read this addicting story and for gifting me an ARC copy of this book ⭐️
4🌶️
“I know evil and it is me.”
I went into A Debt of Darkness excited for another vampire romance, but I wasn’t prepared for the 3am reality check when I realized I hadn’t put the book down! This book had me hooked from the start. I was rooting for Ivy to give in, to just let herself break! And Henry? Yeah, I will kneel beneath him so he can feed on me anytime. Add in that jewel-encrusted collar and a couple of good spankings for good measure.
That said, I did want more development with some of the other characters. There were hints that Ryan and Matt might have a "mate" connection with Ivy, and I was hoping for that to get explored. When Ryan reaction was called out for being stronger than Henry's, I was sure something was going to be established outside of the group romp scene, but it didn’t really take off.
I’ve already asked for a sequel because I need more! This one is a must read for the spice enthusiasts!
Tropes:
⭐️Vampires
⭐️Almost Morally Black MMC
⭐️BDSM
⭐️Prophecies
⭐️Betrayal and Redemption
⭐️Tragic Backstory
Thank you to C.J. Holmes for allowing me to be read this addicting story and for gifting me an ARC copy of this book ⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
A Debt of Darkness by C. J. Holmes
Kindle edition read time for me 3 days
May 26, 2025 -May 21, 2025
You ever have one of those books that bring your sexual desires into overdrive? That was a Debt of Darkness for me. With the bdsm, and master/sub it was an amazing rev my engine type of book. I loved the scenes where he fed her food.
The overarching plot was good, She was “Sold” for her fathers debts and we learn that it's a twisted web of lies. In true fashion each coven was out for their own survival.
As far as being a vampire story it hits all the great notes without any of the sparkly vamps.
I’m more of a were type person but enjoyed the blood suckers.
Kindle edition read time for me 3 days
May 26, 2025 -May 21, 2025
You ever have one of those books that bring your sexual desires into overdrive? That was a Debt of Darkness for me. With the bdsm, and master/sub it was an amazing rev my engine type of book. I loved the scenes where he fed her food.
The overarching plot was good, She was “Sold” for her fathers debts and we learn that it's a twisted web of lies. In true fashion each coven was out for their own survival.
As far as being a vampire story it hits all the great notes without any of the sparkly vamps.
I’m more of a were type person but enjoyed the blood suckers.
June 18, 2025
Amazing Book
I absolutely loved this book. It’s the first book I’ve read from this author. The rich expression of emotions felt like I was feeling them myself. I really enjoyed the MMC as an anti-hero and I’m glad the FMC was a strong woman. I look forward to reading the second book in this series.
I absolutely loved this book. It’s the first book I’ve read from this author. The rich expression of emotions felt like I was feeling them myself. I really enjoyed the MMC as an anti-hero and I’m glad the FMC was a strong woman. I look forward to reading the second book in this series.
October 26, 2024
Thank you to CJ Holmes for the ARC in exchange for a review 💜
Overall, I enjoyed this.
You got me with a secret society and power dynamics.
I loved watching (reading?) Ivy and Henry navigate their dynamic. I appreciate that Henry, tried, to move at Ivy’s pace and it wasn’t suddenly they were having violent s*x under the guise of him “breaking” her. Nor did Ivy suddenly find herself in love with Henry. I’m a sucker for dual POV but often I find they give up the plot when it switches to the person who has the ~dark~ secret. I didn’t find that here. The addition of Matt and Ryan really rounded out the cast and I appreciated they’d often call out Henry’s bs.
I couldn’t have guessed any of the twists. Some how I missed they are vamps at the beginning?? I probably read it and my brain went “yeah yeah yeah, anyway.” So I got an extra, unintentional, surprise there 😂
This book does move very fast. I had to reread sections because I thought I missed something but nope. I would’ve loved a bit more world building and character backgrounds. But I also accept what genre of book I’m reading and know it’s not really going to give me the big world building a fantasy novel might. I also adjust my rating because of the genre.
I walked away with a lot of questions though, some of them I won’t mention because they’re spoilers. They made a big deal about Ivy’s sister and her safety, but then past the first few chapters she was never mentioned again. What’s going on with her? Who really is Damon? Why Ivy? What did her father owe?
You see what I mean? I guess since this is book one, maybe some questions will be answered in the next one?
[Full disclosure, I was a bit nervous when it was labelled as something for fans of Den of Vipers (I hated that book) and Interview with a Vampire. I rolled the dice and found this was nothing like Den of Vipers. Honestly, I got more L.O.R.D.S vibes from this.]
Overall, I enjoyed this.
You got me with a secret society and power dynamics.
I loved watching (reading?) Ivy and Henry navigate their dynamic. I appreciate that Henry, tried, to move at Ivy’s pace and it wasn’t suddenly they were having violent s*x under the guise of him “breaking” her. Nor did Ivy suddenly find herself in love with Henry. I’m a sucker for dual POV but often I find they give up the plot when it switches to the person who has the ~dark~ secret. I didn’t find that here. The addition of Matt and Ryan really rounded out the cast and I appreciated they’d often call out Henry’s bs.
I couldn’t have guessed any of the twists. Some how I missed they are vamps at the beginning?? I probably read it and my brain went “yeah yeah yeah, anyway.” So I got an extra, unintentional, surprise there 😂
This book does move very fast. I had to reread sections because I thought I missed something but nope. I would’ve loved a bit more world building and character backgrounds. But I also accept what genre of book I’m reading and know it’s not really going to give me the big world building a fantasy novel might. I also adjust my rating because of the genre.
I walked away with a lot of questions though, some of them I won’t mention because they’re spoilers. They made a big deal about Ivy’s sister and her safety, but then past the first few chapters she was never mentioned again. What’s going on with her? Who really is Damon? Why Ivy? What did her father owe?
You see what I mean? I guess since this is book one, maybe some questions will be answered in the next one?
[Full disclosure, I was a bit nervous when it was labelled as something for fans of Den of Vipers (I hated that book) and Interview with a Vampire. I rolled the dice and found this was nothing like Den of Vipers. Honestly, I got more L.O.R.D.S vibes from this.]
November 2, 2024
I received this book as an ARC, I was also lucky enough to connect with the author, CJ Holmes. CJ is a very capable, talented writer who wrote this book for the eldest daughters, who grew up too fast not by choice, who had home lives that were less than perfect, and had their flowers picked while they were still blooming and vulnerable by someone strong, steady, and there to take care of us in a way we didn’t know we needed. Even if it’s not the fairy tale we wanted from childhood stories. This book is as written for people like me, and so many others. There are some trigger warnings that do need to be read, and understood prior to reading, CJ did not come to tip toe around things and truly poured herself into this book. It is deep, it does make your stomach upset one moment and heart flutter the next.
The writing style, does offer different POV which was beautifully done. It was written true to YA style, I’m someone who likes a lengthier and wordier book with more world building. I did find myself wishing for more of a prologue to layout the world, characters, magic/tropes, etc. I like a good base to go off of, and even know what people smell like so I can light the appropriate candle while reading to give myself an ambiance to “transport” into the story, so I would critique to ask for less swearing (it’s practically in every sentence) and ask for more descriptive language to level-this book up a notch- but that is my personal preference. This is a good book to read to get you out of a reading slump, or book hangover because it pulls your interest quickly and is very though/feelings provoking. I’m excited to follow CJ as an new and upcoming indie author. CJ is a wonderful person who cares about her readers, wants to connect, and actually wants to hear about your experience as a reader which is very special
The writing style, does offer different POV which was beautifully done. It was written true to YA style, I’m someone who likes a lengthier and wordier book with more world building. I did find myself wishing for more of a prologue to layout the world, characters, magic/tropes, etc. I like a good base to go off of, and even know what people smell like so I can light the appropriate candle while reading to give myself an ambiance to “transport” into the story, so I would critique to ask for less swearing (it’s practically in every sentence) and ask for more descriptive language to level-this book up a notch- but that is my personal preference. This is a good book to read to get you out of a reading slump, or book hangover because it pulls your interest quickly and is very though/feelings provoking. I’m excited to follow CJ as an new and upcoming indie author. CJ is a wonderful person who cares about her readers, wants to connect, and actually wants to hear about your experience as a reader which is very special
November 2, 2024
⭐️3.5⭐️
I’m giving this read a 3.5 stars!
I would consider this book a m o o d read for me, no thoughts just vibes ✨
Our FMC Ivy is stubborn, strong willed and a dgaf girlie (yes queen) while our MMC Henry is domineering and hard headed.
I’ll start with what I didn’t love,
The plot is very character driven with basically 0 world building, which I don’t mind if done right, but it left me feeling a little lost, especially at the beginning. Ivy and Henry are fated mates, he’s a vampire and she’s a human (she has no idea until half way through). Ivy is sold off by her father who she hates, why you ask? Well, we have no clue. Henry also mentions he used to hate Ivy, but again we have no idea why. The underlying plot is also lacking information, are FMC Ivy is supposed to be at the center of a prophecy from the brotherhood, but we really got little information about what the brotherhood does and the priests involved. There’s also war vampire but again it’s lacking a lot of information. Also we randomly find out that Ivy’s a half vampire at the end of the book but still needs to be turned into a vampire.
Now on to what I enjoyed..
The 🌶️ s p i c e 🌶️
Their relationship is very Dom/Sub, the spicy scenes are done particularly well and I ate up every second. I loved the relationship that formed between our two characters and I loved the side characters as well. Ivy tests her boundaries with Henry every chance she can and I love how you can see Henry bend his will to hers. Henry is also the epitome of “touch her and you die” *swoon*
Overall, you’ll enjoy the book of your going in simply for the romance factor. But if you’re looking for a book with 0 plot holes and a well thought out world, this won’t be for you!
I’m giving this read a 3.5 stars!
I would consider this book a m o o d read for me, no thoughts just vibes ✨
Our FMC Ivy is stubborn, strong willed and a dgaf girlie (yes queen) while our MMC Henry is domineering and hard headed.
I’ll start with what I didn’t love,
The plot is very character driven with basically 0 world building, which I don’t mind if done right, but it left me feeling a little lost, especially at the beginning. Ivy and Henry are fated mates, he’s a vampire and she’s a human (she has no idea until half way through). Ivy is sold off by her father who she hates, why you ask? Well, we have no clue. Henry also mentions he used to hate Ivy, but again we have no idea why. The underlying plot is also lacking information, are FMC Ivy is supposed to be at the center of a prophecy from the brotherhood, but we really got little information about what the brotherhood does and the priests involved. There’s also war vampire but again it’s lacking a lot of information. Also we randomly find out that Ivy’s a half vampire at the end of the book but still needs to be turned into a vampire.
Now on to what I enjoyed..
The 🌶️ s p i c e 🌶️
Their relationship is very Dom/Sub, the spicy scenes are done particularly well and I ate up every second. I loved the relationship that formed between our two characters and I loved the side characters as well. Ivy tests her boundaries with Henry every chance she can and I love how you can see Henry bend his will to hers. Henry is also the epitome of “touch her and you die” *swoon*
Overall, you’ll enjoy the book of your going in simply for the romance factor. But if you’re looking for a book with 0 plot holes and a well thought out world, this won’t be for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
A girl betrayed by her father, a vampire who set his sights on a human long ago.
Henry an ancient vampire that's been around for millennia is ruthless, cunning, and unforgiving. His second in command, Ryan is almost identical they complement each other on and off the battlefield. Once enemies turned friends control a highly skilled coven that is always prepared for war.
Ivy a human with a fire no one can extinguish, has been sold to a ruthless man who is rumored to be worse than a womanizer. Her father threw her to the wolves to save his business from collapsing. She fights every inch of the way, never letting up and never showing weakness.
Henry quickly realizes there is more to Ivy than it seems, behind all the sass and resilience something else is there that refuses to come to the surface. While they are learning how to "deal" with each other an enemy that has been plotting for centuries emerges from the shadows throwing the vampire world into chaos.
I loved reading A Debt of Darkness and how spicy it was. The author did a fantastic job displaying a dominant and submissive relationship down to self-care afterward. The connection between Henry and Ivy is unmatched, they are made for each other in mind, body, & soul. I adore Ivy's character; her life was anything but pleasant, but even in the face of death her resilience never faltered. She would either get through the storm or she would die trying.
C.J. Holmes is a fantastic author, and I can't wait to read more of her books in the future. I highly recommend this book to those who love spicy dark romance with a dominant and submissive relationship.
Henry an ancient vampire that's been around for millennia is ruthless, cunning, and unforgiving. His second in command, Ryan is almost identical they complement each other on and off the battlefield. Once enemies turned friends control a highly skilled coven that is always prepared for war.
Ivy a human with a fire no one can extinguish, has been sold to a ruthless man who is rumored to be worse than a womanizer. Her father threw her to the wolves to save his business from collapsing. She fights every inch of the way, never letting up and never showing weakness.
Henry quickly realizes there is more to Ivy than it seems, behind all the sass and resilience something else is there that refuses to come to the surface. While they are learning how to "deal" with each other an enemy that has been plotting for centuries emerges from the shadows throwing the vampire world into chaos.
I loved reading A Debt of Darkness and how spicy it was. The author did a fantastic job displaying a dominant and submissive relationship down to self-care afterward. The connection between Henry and Ivy is unmatched, they are made for each other in mind, body, & soul. I adore Ivy's character; her life was anything but pleasant, but even in the face of death her resilience never faltered. She would either get through the storm or she would die trying.
C.J. Holmes is a fantastic author, and I can't wait to read more of her books in the future. I highly recommend this book to those who love spicy dark romance with a dominant and submissive relationship.
October 15, 2024
***I received a copy of this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review ***
Enemies to lovers - vampire/human - arranged marriage - spicy - fated mates - dual POV - he falls first -
Overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and plot of A Debt of Darkness. The speed and flow of the story progression were done well. The author doesn't leave us as a reader with many unanswered questions that don't feel like they won't be answered in the next book. The romantic development between the two main characters was believable for an enemies to lovers, fated mates(one is reluctant), and he falls first situation. And the spice scenes were good, if a little drawn out at times.
I do have to take points off personally for the overuse of any form of the word f**k. I have no issue with or using that word myself. However, it felt like it was in every other sentence throughout the book unnecessarily. I also felt like there was an overuse of metaphors to describe a characters feelings throughout. Metaphors are a great way to get your point across to assist the reader in understanding how a character is feeling in the moment, but when there is consistently 3-4 in a row to describe the same thing it starts to feel a bit repetitive.
All that being said... overall, I did enjoy the book as a whole, and if I happen to come across the sequel when released, I'd probably continue reading to see where the characters go from here. But it most likely wouldn't be high on my watch list for new releases.
Enemies to lovers - vampire/human - arranged marriage - spicy - fated mates - dual POV - he falls first -
Overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and plot of A Debt of Darkness. The speed and flow of the story progression were done well. The author doesn't leave us as a reader with many unanswered questions that don't feel like they won't be answered in the next book. The romantic development between the two main characters was believable for an enemies to lovers, fated mates(one is reluctant), and he falls first situation. And the spice scenes were good, if a little drawn out at times.
I do have to take points off personally for the overuse of any form of the word f**k. I have no issue with or using that word myself. However, it felt like it was in every other sentence throughout the book unnecessarily. I also felt like there was an overuse of metaphors to describe a characters feelings throughout. Metaphors are a great way to get your point across to assist the reader in understanding how a character is feeling in the moment, but when there is consistently 3-4 in a row to describe the same thing it starts to feel a bit repetitive.
All that being said... overall, I did enjoy the book as a whole, and if I happen to come across the sequel when released, I'd probably continue reading to see where the characters go from here. But it most likely wouldn't be high on my watch list for new releases.
November 29, 2024
I started reading A Debt of Darkness with no expectations other than for it to feature a human-vampire romance with a long list of dark and somewhat disturbing tropes, and it did not disappoint in that regard. Indeed, C.J. Holmes has written a dark PNR that's as full of angst, anguish, despair, and fear as it is adoration, courage, devotion, and love. Moreover, it has blood, gore, suspense, torture, and violence, which is balanced with challenging but genuine friendships and lots of steam.
FMC Ivy is not only brave, feisty, and stubborn in the face of danger and the unknown but also emotionally vulnerable and relatable, while MMC Henry is mostly indomitable and stern but not irredeemable due to his unwavering commitment to Ivy's safety and overall well-being. Their dynamic throughout the story is interesting to follow because Henry challenges Ivy to surrender her life to him and Ivy challenges Henry to allow her the autonomy she desires, which forces them to grow and learn how to love each other together. The secondary characters, including Ryan, Matt, and Damon, are also interesting, and I'm excited to see how their relationships with the MCs develop in future books.
While I am left with several questions after reading A Debt of Darkness and can't help wishing that the author gave us more information about all the MCs' pasts and the vampires' culture and customs, I understand that this is only the first book in a series and that more information should be included in the next book, A Deal in Darkness, which I look forward to reading next year.
FMC Ivy is not only brave, feisty, and stubborn in the face of danger and the unknown but also emotionally vulnerable and relatable, while MMC Henry is mostly indomitable and stern but not irredeemable due to his unwavering commitment to Ivy's safety and overall well-being. Their dynamic throughout the story is interesting to follow because Henry challenges Ivy to surrender her life to him and Ivy challenges Henry to allow her the autonomy she desires, which forces them to grow and learn how to love each other together. The secondary characters, including Ryan, Matt, and Damon, are also interesting, and I'm excited to see how their relationships with the MCs develop in future books.
While I am left with several questions after reading A Debt of Darkness and can't help wishing that the author gave us more information about all the MCs' pasts and the vampires' culture and customs, I understand that this is only the first book in a series and that more information should be included in the next book, A Deal in Darkness, which I look forward to reading next year.
October 28, 2024
arc review 💋
𝓐 𝓓𝓮𝓫𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓓𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼
❥ enemies to lovers
❥ arranged marriage
❥ vampire/human
❥ fated mates
❥ touch her & 🪦
*¨༺𝔪𝔶 𝔱𝔥𝔬𝔲𝔤𝔥𝔱𝔰༻¨*:·.
overall i really enjoyed reading this book, the author does a excellent job of creating a captivating story with well developed characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end. i really loved the vibes this book gives! 🖤🖤
so if you are looking for a book with vampires and a lot of spice this is definitely a book for you to add to your tbr 🖤 but if you have any triggers i would recommend checking the trigger warning list!
as this is my first ever arc read & review i’m honored that CJ let me be apart of this 🖤 thank you!
𝔪𝔶 𝔯𝔞𝔱𝔦𝔫𝔤: ★ ★ ★ ★
𝔰𝔭𝔦𝔠𝔢:🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
.·:*¨༺𝔮𝔲𝔬𝔱𝔢𝔰༻¨*:·.
➳ 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘛𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘵
➳ 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭. 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘐 𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵
➳ 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘢𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦
➳ 𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘳. 𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦.
➳ 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘻𝘻𝘭𝘦. 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦.
𝓐 𝓓𝓮𝓫𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓓𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼
❥ enemies to lovers
❥ arranged marriage
❥ vampire/human
❥ fated mates
❥ touch her & 🪦
*¨༺𝔪𝔶 𝔱𝔥𝔬𝔲𝔤𝔥𝔱𝔰༻¨*:·.
overall i really enjoyed reading this book, the author does a excellent job of creating a captivating story with well developed characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end. i really loved the vibes this book gives! 🖤🖤
so if you are looking for a book with vampires and a lot of spice this is definitely a book for you to add to your tbr 🖤 but if you have any triggers i would recommend checking the trigger warning list!
as this is my first ever arc read & review i’m honored that CJ let me be apart of this 🖤 thank you!
𝔪𝔶 𝔯𝔞𝔱𝔦𝔫𝔤: ★ ★ ★ ★
𝔰𝔭𝔦𝔠𝔢:🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
.·:*¨༺𝔮𝔲𝔬𝔱𝔢𝔰༻¨*:·.
➳ 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘛𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘵
➳ 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭. 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘐 𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵
➳ 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘢𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦
➳ 𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘳. 𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦.
➳ 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘻𝘻𝘭𝘦. 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦.
November 1, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Abso-Freakin-Lutely dark and delicious. This is one of those books that hooks you with all FILTH and then hands you the fantasy plot you adore on a silver platter afterwards like a fun gift for being such a "good pet".
I'm not usually one for vampire romances as I over consumed them in highschool but CJ Holmes has quite possibly cured this hangover for me. Henry is a beautiful, violent mess. He thinks things should be one way and Ivy refuses to bend to her cage. These two fight so much you think they aren't going to fit but really it's just a matter of some proper freaking communication and willingness to listen and understand. It's did up but it's beautiful. Henry's revelations are nothing short of satisfying and I had fun yelling at him while reading. He's an alphahole. Plain and simple. The way feeding works is unique and actually has consequence in dire circumstances if not prepared and sorted beforehand. I really enjoyed this twist on vampirism as it made what you think you already know by about vampirism feel all the more outdated.
I really enjoyed CJ's writing style, it was very engaging. To the point (as said earlier) I was yelling at some characters. The dual pov keeps things entertaining and the story is paced very well. All of this being the reason I'm sticking around for the next book in this series!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Abso-Freakin-Lutely dark and delicious. This is one of those books that hooks you with all FILTH and then hands you the fantasy plot you adore on a silver platter afterwards like a fun gift for being such a "good pet".
I'm not usually one for vampire romances as I over consumed them in highschool but CJ Holmes has quite possibly cured this hangover for me. Henry is a beautiful, violent mess. He thinks things should be one way and Ivy refuses to bend to her cage. These two fight so much you think they aren't going to fit but really it's just a matter of some proper freaking communication and willingness to listen and understand. It's did up but it's beautiful. Henry's revelations are nothing short of satisfying and I had fun yelling at him while reading. He's an alphahole. Plain and simple. The way feeding works is unique and actually has consequence in dire circumstances if not prepared and sorted beforehand. I really enjoyed this twist on vampirism as it made what you think you already know by about vampirism feel all the more outdated.
I really enjoyed CJ's writing style, it was very engaging. To the point (as said earlier) I was yelling at some characters. The dual pov keeps things entertaining and the story is paced very well. All of this being the reason I'm sticking around for the next book in this series!
November 26, 2024
Spice: 4/5
Holmes blends supernatural intrigue with a gripping dark romance, delivering all the suspense and spice you could want. From the start, Ivy’s fiery spirit steals the show—though she may be the submissive in the relationship, she’s far from passive. She’s quick to put Henry in his place whenever necessary, making their dynamic all the more captivating. Meanwhile, Henry’s development is a slow burn, and it’s fascinating to watch him shift from wanting Ivy as a “pet” to seeing her as an equal. I also really loved the relationship that Ivy developed with both Ryan and Matt; they both provided depth and proved to be essential for Ivy throughout the story. As for plot, the second half of the book feels much faster-paced than the first. The sudden shift in tone is a bit jarring, and while the twist keeps you turning pages, it could’ve been alluded to better in the earlier chapters to feel more cohesive. The ending leaves enough unresolved to make you eager for the next book, though it’s wrapped up just enough to leave you wondering if it’s truly the end of their story.
As always with Dark Romances, be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading!
Tropes Include:
- Arranged Marriage (but make it Fated Mates edition)
- Touch Her and 💀
- Captor x Captive
- Vampire x Human
- Almost Morally Black MMC
Holmes blends supernatural intrigue with a gripping dark romance, delivering all the suspense and spice you could want. From the start, Ivy’s fiery spirit steals the show—though she may be the submissive in the relationship, she’s far from passive. She’s quick to put Henry in his place whenever necessary, making their dynamic all the more captivating. Meanwhile, Henry’s development is a slow burn, and it’s fascinating to watch him shift from wanting Ivy as a “pet” to seeing her as an equal. I also really loved the relationship that Ivy developed with both Ryan and Matt; they both provided depth and proved to be essential for Ivy throughout the story. As for plot, the second half of the book feels much faster-paced than the first. The sudden shift in tone is a bit jarring, and while the twist keeps you turning pages, it could’ve been alluded to better in the earlier chapters to feel more cohesive. The ending leaves enough unresolved to make you eager for the next book, though it’s wrapped up just enough to leave you wondering if it’s truly the end of their story.
As always with Dark Romances, be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading!
Tropes Include:
- Arranged Marriage (but make it Fated Mates edition)
- Touch Her and 💀
- Captor x Captive
- Vampire x Human
- Almost Morally Black MMC
November 7, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Ivy is forced to marry Henry, a man with a reputation as dark as the night, to save her family. But that doesn't mean she will be the obedient wife so easily. What Ivy doesn't know is that she's married a powerful vampire and a whole world of danger lurks outside her new home. As Henry and Ivy battle each other to find balance in their relationship, darker forces threaten to destroy them.
This book was everything you want in a dark, very spicy romance with the added bonus of vampires. Henry is a very morally grey MMC and Ivy is one of the strongest FMCs I've ever read. The enemies-to-lovers trope was strong here and watching the push and pull of Ivy and Henry's relationship was a thrill. Just when I thought everything was wrapping up in the last part of the book, there was a huge reveal and I was back to sitting on the edge of my seat. The vampire element was a perfect fit in this story and very well done. Those who enjoy dark paranormal romance should pick up this book. Please be sure to review the trigger warnings before you begin.
Follow me on Instagram @smorebooksplease for more bookish fun!
Ivy is forced to marry Henry, a man with a reputation as dark as the night, to save her family. But that doesn't mean she will be the obedient wife so easily. What Ivy doesn't know is that she's married a powerful vampire and a whole world of danger lurks outside her new home. As Henry and Ivy battle each other to find balance in their relationship, darker forces threaten to destroy them.
This book was everything you want in a dark, very spicy romance with the added bonus of vampires. Henry is a very morally grey MMC and Ivy is one of the strongest FMCs I've ever read. The enemies-to-lovers trope was strong here and watching the push and pull of Ivy and Henry's relationship was a thrill. Just when I thought everything was wrapping up in the last part of the book, there was a huge reveal and I was back to sitting on the edge of my seat. The vampire element was a perfect fit in this story and very well done. Those who enjoy dark paranormal romance should pick up this book. Please be sure to review the trigger warnings before you begin.
Follow me on Instagram @smorebooksplease for more bookish fun!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews